Axle Shaft, Bearing & Oil Seal

The following procedures apply to four wheel drive models, for axle bearing replacement procedures on front wheel drive models, refer to REAR HUB & WHEEL BEARING.


Removal

Fig. 1 Axle Shaft Bearing & Oil Seal Replacement.:

1. Raise and support rear of vehicle, then remove wheel and tire assembly and brake drum or rotor, Fig. 1.
2. Through holes in axle shaft flange remove four backing plate mounting bolts.
3. Using a suitable puller, remove axle shaft from axle housing. Use care not to damage oil seal.
4. Using suitable tool, disconnect brake tube and allow fluid to drain in suitable container.
5. Remove backing plate with brake assembly, then remove end gasket from rear axle housing.
6. Inspect axle shaft and flange for wear, damage or runout, maximum shaft runout is .059 inch and maximum flange runout is .004 inch, if runout is not as indicated, replace axle shaft.

Fig. 2 Inner Bearing Retainer Removal.:

7. To replace axle shaft bearing, grind a groove on one side of inner bearing retainer, then using a chisel, split retainer and remove from axle shaft, Fig. 2. Using suitable tool, press bearing from axle shaft and remove spacer (if equipped) and outer bearing retainer.

Installation

1. Coat contact surfaces of oil seal with grease, then install oil seal in axle housing using a suitable mandrel to a depth of .220 inch.
2. Position outer bearing retainer and spacer (if equipped) on axle shaft, then press bearing onto axle shaft.

Fig. 3 Inner Bearing Retainer Installation.:

3. Heat inner bearing retainer to approximately 302°F (150°C) in an oil bath, then press inner bearing retainer onto axle shaft with chamfered side facing toward bearing using suitable tool, Fig. 3. When retainer is heated to 302°F (150°C), its surface will show a faint yellow color. Do not heat retainer above this point.
4. Install axle shaft in axle housing.